And on to the review:

Just returned from the Grand Opening of the NewRiu Palace Bavaro in Punta Cana and WOW !!! This is like no other Riu property to date it’s modern, chic and very fun.

The property opened on December 2 and it opened completed. There is still some planting and some other landscaping being completed, not all of the equipment is installed in the gym, but all minor. Riu removed most of the palm trees replanted them somewhere else and moved them back, so you have a lot of mature landscaping done though out the property and on the beach.

As soon as you enter the lobby (complimentary wi-fi in the lobby) you see the difference in this hotel, the lobby is done in gold, yellow’s and a raspberry color that you see though out the property. Off the lobby you have your conference rooms, lobby bar and Capuchino (with the best ice cream ever). Just outside of the lobby area is the 24 hour sports bar with internet service. Within the U you also have 4 restaurants and the main buffet, reservations still need to be made for the a la carte restaurants, but I have to say the food was wonderful and probably the best buffet with lots of different variety, something for everyone’s taste. Across from the buffet is there outdoor bar and entertainment area, which is beautiful again done in the dark raspberry, purple and black granite. Entertainment was excellent with music before and after the shows.

Main pool, the property was full, but never had to fight or get up at 7:00 AM is reserve space at the pool, lots of shaded areas, zero degree entry at one end, swim up pool bar and wait service. Beach restaurant (becomes Steak House in the evening) conveniently located next to the main pool, lots of variety for lunch.

The rooms are where Riu also went modern, beautiful black granite in the bathroom with raspberry color glass block, mirrors framed in light raspberry color and purple accents in the room. Open room concept with hydromassage tub in room (standard Jr suite), there is a curtain that can be pulled for privacy, sitting area, mini bar, plasma screen TV’s etc.

VIP villa area is also new on this property, the buildings in the VIP area are closest to the beach and are bungalow style surrounding a private pool area. The back buildings are 3 story and going to 2 stories beachfront, something to note there are no elevators in these buildings and they are the furthest from the restaurants and lobby area, but closets to the beach. The private pool area has there own bar with pool service and no towel cards needed, has complimentary wi-fi service in the rooms and around the pool area and jacuzzi on the balcony or terrace. I thought the one thing missing from this area was some type of food service during the day. As we all know there are very few hotels in Punta Cana that has beach front rooms and this is one of them. There are only 16 beach front rooms and so very limited, but you truly have nothing but the beach and the ocean as your view.

Overall, Loved the property, but most of all the staff was outstanding. We all know that staff is going through a training period, but everyone was wonderful and went above and beyond. Also this property is selling like crazy, so if you have clients that are looking to book it, BOOK it now.
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Looks like Riu has created another winner.

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 The DR is a good Island for a Destination Wedding and offers flights from many major airports, with non-stop charter flights available from certain cities during peak travel for those locations.  Lots of great hotel options from which to choose depending on tastes, budget and preferred location.  Most of our clients settle on one of 2 destinations in the DR that are readily accessible to two of the major airports, Punta Cana or La Romana

  Punta Cana is on the South Eastern part of the Island and is home to the magnificent BavaroBeach.  Bavaro offers a long, golden sand beach with miles of beach walking, body surfing in the waves, and simply enjoying the magnificence of nature.   There a numerous excursions offered should you wish to leave your resort.

 La Romana, about an hour south west of Punta Cana offers a calmer beach experience in the Caribbean Sea.  A quaint town provides shopping and dining opportunities for those looking to experience a bit of the local flavor.  You can fly into La Romana and avoid the transfer from the main Punta Cana airport, though flights options are not as plentiful often times making rates higher and availability more difficult to find.

 “Making it legal”  in the DR can be a bit complicated, and quite frankly sometimes unpredictable.

 Necessary documentation: The bride/groom must bring original copies of the following documents:

                               Official birth certificate

                               A valid, non-expired passport

                               An Affidavit that provides proof of Single Status translated by an official translator into Spanish at the Dominican Consulate where the document was issued

Waiting period: The bride/groom must send copies of all documents above to the Oficialia del Estado Civil (City Clerk) preferably six months in advance and request a judge at least one month in advance prior to the wedding date in order to apply for a marriage license.

Witnesses: You must have two witnesses over the age 18.

Divorced/Widowed Travelers: Divorced or widowed parties must provide official copies of the divorce decree or a certified death certificate translated by an official translator into Spanish at the Dominican Consulate where the document was issued.

 Are you ready to say “Te Quiero” in the DR?

JamaicaMon!   A Caribbean Island that is lush, tropical mountainous, and the only jerk you’ll find there is on the chicken.   

Jamaica has a long history of being a perfect Island for a Destination Wedding with many flight options, gorgeous resort areas, good infrastructure and now new roads to make the ride from the airport a much more enjoyable trip.    With numerous resort options and many offering a “free” wedding . Jamaica can be a perfect choice for many couples.    

Of all the resort destinations to choose inJamaica, our clients generally pick one of the 3 listed below as they seem to offer a great range of accommodations, activities and make travel easy for the bride and groom and their guests.

 Jamaica

Montego Bay (MOBAY) is home to Sangster International airport, has numerous shops, restaurants and makes a perfect spot for those looking to have less travel time from the airport to the resort.  Perfect if you’re looking for a shorter stay.

 Negril (Jamaica’s Capital of Casual) is a beach lover’s paradise with over 7 miles of sandy white beaches, beautiful blue Caribbean waters and sunsets that rival those seen anywhere.  

 Ocho Rios is a popular cruise port, offers numerous activities for those guests who are looking to do things off property and is home to the incredible Dunn’s RiverFalls.  A more hustle and bustle atmosphere than you find in the laid back Negril – but this isJamaica so don’t expect too much hustle!

 “Making it legal” in Jamaicais fairly simple:

 Wedding Requirements

The information below is a general list of requirements to perform a legal wedding ceremony in Jamaica. Please check with the Jamaica tourism department or wedding coordinator at your resort for additional information on legal requirements and fees for weddings in Jamaica. All information below is subject to change without notice.

 Necessary documentation: The bride/groom must bring original copies of the following documents:

• Official birth certificate
• A valid, non-expired passport
• Written authorization from the parents/ guardians if the bride or groom is under 18 years of age

 TIP: Make two photocopies of each of the documents above and pack in a separate suitcase such as your checked baggage. Make sure to bring any original documents within your carry-on luggage. 

Waiting period: The bride/groom must be in the destination for at least 24 hours prior to the wedding and must apply for a marriage license at least 48 hours prior to the wedding. All wedding documents must be sent to the resort performing the wedding ceremony at least 10 business days prior to the wedding date.

 Divorced/Widowed Travelers: Divorced or widowed parties must provide official copies of the divorce decree or a certified death certificate.

  With all the resort options, and areas inJamaica, working with a knowledgeable Destination wedding specialist can certainly help you sort out what would be the best option for you.

Are you ready to say “Ya Mon” in Jamaica?

Mexico is a fantastic option for those looking for a destination that will appeal to many of their guests’ imaginations and budgets.  

Love in Mexico

One of the most popular destinations for our wedding groups is the Riviera Maya Mexico – a lush tropical paradise just south of Cancun.    It is perfect for many reasons with just a few being: 

• ·        Easy to get to with numerous flight options from most gateways
• ·        Excellent infrastructure with a modern international airport, good roads and transportation to get people to resorts
• ·        Numerous resort options to fit any budget and lifestyle
• ·        Wide range of off property activities

Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific Side of Mexico offers the Sierra Madre Mountains as your back drop, beautiful wide, long golden sand beaches and also numerous  excellent resort accommodations.

Los Cabos, where theSea ofCortez meets the pacific is another lovely Destination Wedding spot. Not as popular from the our area as it can be a bit difficult to coordinate flight schedules, but we have managed to do so successfully for a number of  wedding couples.

 Getting married inMexicocan be a bit cumbersome, but that is where working with a professional Destination Planner comes in as they will help sort through all the details.  

 “Making it legal in Mexico“:   The information below is a general list of requirements to perform a legal wedding ceremony inMexico. Depending on the area ofMexico or even resort you are having your wedding ceremony at, legal requirements may vary. Please check with theMexicotourism department or wedding coordinator at your resort for additional information on legal requirements and fees for weddings inMexico. All information below is subject to change without notice.

Ceremony Requirements: For a wedding ceremony to be considered legal and binding inMexico, the bride/groom must have a civil ceremony with a Justice of the Peace.

Necessary documentation -The bride/groom must bring original copies of the following documents:

• Official Birth Certificate
• A valid, non-expired passport
• Tourist card (this should be given to you at the airport upon arrival)
• TIP: Make two photocopies of each of the documents above and pack in a separate suitcase such as your checked baggage. Or take a picture of them on your smartphone or digital camera.  Make sure to bring any original documents within your carry-on luggage.

Blood test: A blood test will need to be performed in the destination with test results of syphilis, HIV, and Rh factor (blood type).  May be done right at the resort where you are having your wedding.

Waiting period: It is recommended that the bride/groom arrive at least 5 days prior to the wedding date to ensure translation of any necessary documents.

Witnesses: You must have two witnesses over the age 18

Divorced/Widowed Travelers:   For divorced or widowed parties, you must provide official copies of the divorce decree or a certified death certificate that verifies it has been at least 12 months since the official divorce from or death of the previous spouse.  A negative pregnancy test verified by the Mexican Consulate if the bride was divorced within the last year.

 Are you ready to say “Si, Quiero” in Mexico?

Some of the most popular locations for our clients are Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.  In the next series of posts we will provide information on requirements for each, as well as offer some resort advice. 

Beach Wedding

First off though, is a Destination Wedding right for you?  

 Do you want to commit to be with the love of your life for the rest of your days, and if the only people who decide to be at the wedding are the 2 of you, is this ok?  It is wistful thinking that everyone in your family and immediate circle of friends will jump with joy at the chance to pay out of pocket to attend your extravaganza; you may be a bit disappointed that the actual attendance is less than you had anticipated.   Then again, who doesn’t like a vacation and being with loved ones?

 Do you like the idea of having a complete package for budgeting?  Everything can be handled right onsite at the resort/cruise of your choosing.  Its fun, it’s easy and it’s convenient.  Many details are actually decided once you arrive at the hotel and meet with the wedding coordinator face to face.  Will this cause you undue panic? 

 Do you want to combine your dream wedding with your dream honeymoon and create a “wedding moon”?  Remember, you will be honeymooning with family and friends.

 Having a Destination Wedding can be  wonderful way to begin a new phase of your life, celebrate in a more intimate way with family and friends and can be the absolute best choice for many.  Just make  sure it’s the best choice for you.

Ambassador World Travel has been designated  an  “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner”.

  Ambassador World Travel has been designated by Disney Destinations as an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” based on its strong support in selling Disney vacations and has gained specialized knowledge on vacations to the Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney


The Dream Makers at Ambassador World Travel have received extensive training on Disney Destinations theme parks, resorts, cruises, vacation packages and more.  We can provide the utmost in professional assistance in planning customized Disney vacations.  In fact, one reason we attained the “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” status is that our frontline agents are College of Disney Knowledge graduates – an in-depth comprehensive course that allows us to develop our expertise regarding the Disney Destinations. 

Disney recommends Ambassador World Travel and we are thrilled to be given the honor of being an “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner”.

 Frontier Airlines, has  talking animal spokesmen painted on the tail . Check out their commercials for a really good laugh.

 Swiss International showcasing flights to San Francisco with Flower Power.  

Ride in the belly of Shamu on Southwest Airlines..

Alaska Air will fly you ot the MouseHouse on its own Disneyland Express.

And, these just a few of the many airplanes that have special paint jobs.   Might make for an interesting bucket list addition  to see how many you can spot at an airport, during your travels.  

Couple tips to make take some of the worry out of vacation travel:

1.  Book the non-stop charter flight.  Sure, it may cost a bit more than the connection, but if there is a weather related delay and the flight is delayed you have seat on that plane .  With scheduled carriers you have a seat on “the next available plane” – and that could be 4days from the day you were scheduled to depart. When you are going to Cancun for a 4 day weekend – you’ll spend your vacation in the tanning bed, instead of on the beach.

2.  Purchase Travel Insurance which will help defray some of the costs for expenses that may have been incurred to do a forced delay in destination, or will cover non-refundable package components if you are unable to reach your destination as scheduled.

3.  Use a travel agent who will help rebook your flights, assist with changing car /hotel reservations and save you from airline reservations busy signals,  airline websites down due to too much traffic and can simply offer you real time, real person advice.  If your initial purchase is online,  your local travel agent will not be able to step in and assist.

4.  Plan to travel a day before you “positively, absolutely, have to be there”.  Nothing is more tear inducing than a delayed flight landing in Miami at 5pm and the cruise passengers watching their ship sail away – without them. 

5.  Basic info, yet something even we sometimes neglect to do:  Check the airline flight status BEFORE leaving for the airport.  On occasion, flights will be cancelled even the night before -if you catch it early,it’s much easier to rebook.

6.  Worst case scenario – you’re forced to completely cancel your plans? Get another trip planned ASAP!  Nothing worse than the winter doldrums with no sunshine in your future.

The to and fro part of the vacation process can be a bit tricky at times but the memories created, experiences shared and smiles created, make it all worth it in the end.

After all:

The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.
Saint Augustine

It’s that time of year when clearance deals abound in the retail market, and this year, it’s not so different in the travel industry either.   Our friends at Funjet Vacations  have decided to move their left over seat /room inventory and offer a Daily Deal for the next week or so.  These deals must be booked, the day they are posted.     Click on the Daily Deal banner for the deal of the day!

One thing to keep in mind, that I have learned as an almost professional shopper:  Just because something is on sale, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right fit for you.   

It's only $99 per person AND we get a free cruise!

Remember , we have YOUR best interests in mind, we work for you, the traveler, not the supplier.  If you have questions as to whether the deal out there is really a deal for you – ask us.   We’re all  happy to tell you where to go!